Internship: The Met High School

Name of Organization: The Met High School http://www.themethighschool.org/

Address: 325 Public St Providence, RI 02905 

Description of the overall mission of this organization: The mission is to educate and empower youth through a relentless commitment to student-centered learning and personal growth. 

Ages of youth served: 14-18 years old 

Name of Mentor: Samuel Jean-Baptiste 

Hours worked: (number, days, times) 100 hours worked, Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday (9 am- 1 pm) 

Description of your role and duties: As a Teacher Assistant, I had the opportunity to work with an advisory of 10th-grade students. Sometimes, I'd help students with their writing and organizational skills one on one or in groups. I also assisted my mentor Sam during advisory lessons with minor tasks, such as passing out pens, pencils, or paper to the students. During my time at The Met, I also facilitated a 30 minute workshop on "Cultural Appropriation," and the damage or controversy it can cause to cultural communities.  

Description of the culture of the place: The culture of The Met is non-traditional. Meaning, "teachers" are considered "Advisors" and have a classroom (an Advisory) of their own consisting of 15-17 students. The group of students, along with the Advisor spend 4 years together which eventually becomes a second family. Advisors, faculty and the Principal are called by their first names. Educators dress business casual or casual as long as it is appropriate, the same dress code is expected by the youth. The curriculum is unique, youth are in control regarding their learning plans. In other words, their passions or interests help shape their curriculum which differs from other students. Two days out of the week, young people are at internship sites that pertain to their passion or interests. Each trimester, students present an "Exhibition" which showcases and highlights what the young person has been working on or working towards, such as,  academic work, internship projects, or any additional opportunities they took on outside of school. 

Additional Requirements:  A BCI is required 

Special notes on the process of getting this internship: Contact The Met High School and express that you're a Rhode Island College student majoring in The Youth Development Program, seeking to intern with an Advisory (or Administration, your choice!) 

Other internship opportunities with this organization: I haven't personally have not experienced additional opportunities with The Met, however, I'm sure if you collaborate with your mentor, it is possible you can visit internship sites and also help assist students. 

What three TAGS would you use to label this internship?

#teenagers #mentoring #curriculum

Your name: Carmen Vazquez

Your cohort: Cohort 7 

Your email address if others can contact you: cvazquezivet@gmail.com